El Salvador’s recently approved Anti-Corruption Law officially came into force this Monday, aiming to prevent, detect, and sanction corruption within public service. The law applies to all public officials, employees, authorities, and even private individuals or entities involved with government institutions, municipalities, and autonomous bodies.
A central feature of the law is the creation of the National Integrated Anti-Corruption System (SINAC), overseen by the Attorney General’s Office. SINAC will monitor and verify the assets and conduct of public officials and citizens, ensuring transparency and accountability. Additionally, a National Anti-Corruption Center (CNA), also under the Attorney General’s Office, will handle intelligence, prevention, investigation, and prosecution of corruption cases.
One significant innovation is granting the Court of Accounts unrestricted access to sworn asset and liability declarations submitted to the Ministry of Finance. The Court is empowered to investigate potential corruption, conflicts of interest, or illicit enrichment.
Public officials must now submit a detailed asset and liability report alongside their income tax declaration, including information about their spouse’s assets. These reports will be published online by the Ministry of Finance within 15 business days, offering citizens easy access to this information.
President Nayib Bukele signed the decree on February 11, 2025, after legislative approval earlier that month. The law’s key provisions came into effect 180 days after official publication, marking a new chapter in El Salvador’s fight against corruption.
“This law strengthens our commitment to transparency and integrity in public service,” a government spokesperson said.